A HOUSING association with a base in Basingstoke has appointed its new chief.

Sovereign, which has a base in Sarum Hill and properties in Basingstoke, has announced announced Mark Washer as its new chief executive.

M Washer is currently chief financial officer of Clarion Housing and will join Sovereign in the summer, taking over the leadership from Ann Santry.

With 25 years in the housing sector, Mark brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role.

Speaking about the appointment, Gordon Holdcroft, Sovereign's chair, said: “I’m really pleased that Mark has agreed to join us as our new chief executive. He’ll bring fresh thinking, high energy and strong leadership to Sovereign, helping us to continue to transform the business and make a real difference to people’s lives.

“As we welcome Mark, we’ll also be saying goodbye to Ann Santry. I’d like to thank her, both personally and on behalf of the board, for her unwavering commitment to Sovereign over the past 18 years.”

Mr Washer said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Sovereign. Ann is an incredibly hard act to follow, but I’m looking forward to leading the organisation through the next phase in its history.

“Sovereign is in fantastic shape. It’s financially strong, with high performing staff, who have the ambition and determination to make the difference for people who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford a secure home, in a place they want to live."